Astros lose their way in failed bid to repeat

1of232Houston Astros Alex Bregman (2) reacts after he strikes out swinging during the eighth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

2of232Houston Astros Tony Kemp (18) reacts after flying out to end Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

4of232Houston Astros Alex Bregman (2) reacts from the dugout at the end of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

5of232Houston Astros Alex Bregman (2) reacts from the dugout at the end of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

6of232Houston Astros Carlos Correa (1) reacts from the dugout at the end of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

7of232Houston Astros Alex Bregman (2) reacts from the dugout at the end of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

8of232Houston Astros designated hitter Jose Altuve (27) reacts from the dugout at the end of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

9of232Houston Astros Alex Bregman (2) reacts from the dugout at the end of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

10of232Houston Astros starting pitcher Justin Verlander (35) reacts from the dugout at the end of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

11of232Houston Astros designated hitter Jose Altuve (27) reacts from the dugout at the end of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

12of232Houston Astros designated hitter Jose Altuve (27) reacts from the dugout at the end of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

13of232Houston Astros Alex Bregman (2) watches from the dugout during the ninth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

14of232Houston Astros Marwin Gonzalez (9) reacts after striking out during the ninth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

15of232Houston Astros Carlos Correa (1) reacts after striking out swinging during the ninth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

16of232A fan wears his rally cap during the ninth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

17of232Boston Red Sox relief pitcher Craig Kimbrel (46) pitches during the ninth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

18of232Houston Astros relief pitcher Roberto Osuna (54) reacts at the end of the top of the ninth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

19of232Houston Astros relief pitcher Roberto Osuna (54) reacts at the end of the top of the ninth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

20of232Boston Red Sox relief pitcher Craig Kimbrel (46) pitches during the ninth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

21of232Astros fans cheer during Houston Astros designated hitter Jose Altuve's at-bat during the eighth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

22of232Houston Astros relief pitcher Roberto Osuna (54) reacts at the end of the top of the ninth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

23of232Houston Astros manager AJ Hinch (14) watches from the dugout during Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

24of232Houston Astros Carlos Correa (1) listens during the seventh inning stretch of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

25of232The Boston Red Sox celebrate after winning Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Michael Ciaglo/Staff photographer

26of232Houston Astros George Springer (4) listens during the seventh inning stretch of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

27of232Astros fans react at the end of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Michael Ciaglo/Staff photographer

28of232Houston Astros Alex Bregman (2) reacts after he strikes out swinging during the eighth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

29of232Houston Astros Alex Bregman (2) reacts after he strikes out swinging during the eighth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

30of232Houston Astros George Springer (4) listens during the seventh inning stretch of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

31of232Houston Astros Josh Reddick (22) listens during the seventh inning stretch of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

32of232The Boston Red Sox celebrate after winning Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Michael Ciaglo/Staff photographer

33of232The Boston Red Sox celebrate after winning Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Michael Ciaglo/Staff photographer

34of232Houston Astros Marwin Gonzalez (9) misses the tag on Boston Red Sox Ian Kinsler (5) after Kinsler hit a double during the eighth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

35of232Boston Red Sox relief pitcher Matt Barnes (32) is relieved during the seventh inning after allowing a solo home run and a walk during Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

36of232Houston Astros designated hitter Jose Altuve (27) lines out to Boston Red Sox Jackie Bradley Jr. (19) to strand one runner and end the eighth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

37of232An Astros fan holds up a sign during Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

38of232Houston Astros designated hitter Jose Altuve (27) reacts after lining out to Boston Red Sox Jackie Bradley Jr. (19) to strand one runner and end the eighth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Michael Ciaglo/Staff photographer

39of232Houston Astros designated hitter Jose Altuve (27) reacts after lining out to Boston Red Sox Jackie Bradley Jr. (19) to strand one runner and end the eighth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

40of232Houston Astros Marwin Gonzalez (9) misses the tag on Boston Red Sox Ian Kinsler (5) after Kinsler hit a double during the eighth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

41of232Houston Astros designated hitter Jose Altuve (27) reacts after lining out to Boston Red Sox Jackie Bradley Jr. (19) to strand one runner and end the eighth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

42of232Houston Astros designated hitter Jose Altuve (27) reacts after lining out to Boston Red Sox Jackie Bradley Jr. (19) to strand one runner and end the eighth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

43of232Houston Astros designated hitter Jose Altuve (27) reacts after lining out to Boston Red Sox Jackie Bradley Jr. (19) to strand one runner and end the eighth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Michael Ciaglo/Staff photographer

44of232The Boston Red Sox celebrate after winning Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

45of232Houston Astros George Springer (4) singles to center field during the eighth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Michael Ciaglo/Staff photographer

46of232Houston Astros Carlos Correa (1) watches from the dugout at the end of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

47of232Boston Red Sox Mookie Betts (50) catches a fly ball from Houston Astros Josh Reddick (22) to end the seventh inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

48of232Houston Astros designated hitter Jose Altuve (27) watches from the dugout at the end of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

49of232Boston Red Sox relief pitcher Craig Kimbrel (46) celebrates at the conclusion of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

50of232The Boston Red Sox celebrate after winning Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

51of232Houston Astros designated hitter Jose Altuve (27) watches from the dugout at the end of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

52of232Houston Astros Alex Bregman (2) reacts after he strikes out swinging during the eighth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

53of232Houston Astros Marwin Gonzalez (9) misses the tag on Boston Red Sox Ian Kinsler (5) after Kinsler hit a double during the eighth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

54of232A home run hit by Houston Astros Marwin Gonzalez (9) goes over the left field wall during the seventh inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

55of232A home run hit by Houston Astros Marwin Gonzalez (9) goes over the left field wall during the seventh inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

56of232Houston Astros Alex Bregman (2) reacts after he strikes out swinging during the eighth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

57of232Boston Red Sox relief pitcher Matt Barnes (32) is relieved during the seventh inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

58of232Houston Astros designated hitter Jose Altuve (27) watches from the dugout during the eighth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

59of232Houston Astros Alex Bregman (2) reacts after he strikes out swinging during the eighth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

60of232Houston Astros Marwin Gonzalez (9) is welcomed home after hitting a solo home run during the seventh inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

61of232Houston Astros Marwin Gonzalez (9) misses the tag on Boston Red Sox Ian Kinsler (5) after Kinsler hit a double during the eighth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

62of232Houston Astros relief pitcher Roberto Osuna (54) pitches during the eighth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

63of232Houston Astros Marwin Gonzalez (9) is welcomed home by Carlos Correa (1) after he hit a home run during the seventh inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

64of232Houston Astros Marwin Gonzalez (9) crosses home plate after hitting a home run during the seventh inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

65of232Houston Astros designated hitter Jose Altuve (27) strikes out swinging during the sixth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

66of232Houston Astros Marwin Gonzalez (9) hits a home run during the seventh inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

67of232Houston Astros Alex Bregman (2) reacts as he flies out to right fielder Mookie Betts during the sixth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

68of232Boston Red Sox Rafael Devers (11) throws out Houston Astros George Springer (4) during the sixth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

69of232Houston Astros Alex Bregman (2) reacts as he flies out to right fielder Mookie Betts during the sixth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

70of232Houston Astros Marwin Gonzalez (9) crosses home plate after hitting a home run during the seventh inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

71of232Houston Astros Carlos Correa (1) fields a ground out from Boston Red Sox J.D. Martinez (28) during the seventh inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

72of232Houston Astros relief pitcher Roberto Osuna (54) pitches during the seventh inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

73of232Boston Red Sox starting pitcher David Price (24) is welcomed back to the dugout at the end of the sixth inning by Red Sox manager Alex Cora during Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

74of232Houston Astros Alex Bregman (2) flies out to right fielder Mookie Betts during the sixth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

75of232Houston Astros starting pitcher Justin Verlander (35) walks to the dugout at the end of the top of the fifth inning after allowing the Red Sox to take a 4-0 lead on a three-run home run by Boston Red Sox Rafael Devers (11) during Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

76of232Houston Astros starting pitcher Justin Verlander (35) walks to the dugout at the end of the top of the fifth inning after allowing the Red Sox to take a 4-0 lead on a three-run home run by Boston Red Sox Rafael Devers (11) during Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

77of232An Astros fan hangs her head during the seventh inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Michael Ciaglo/Staff photographer

78of232Houston Astros starting pitcher Justin Verlander (35) walks to the dugout at the end of the top of the fifth inning after allowing the Red Sox to take a 4-0 lead on a three-run home run by Boston Red Sox Rafael Devers (11) during Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

79of232A young Astros fan reacts during the seventh inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Michael Ciaglo/Staff photographer

80of232Astros fans watch as Boston Red Sox Mookie Betts (50) catches a long fly ball from Houston Astros Alex Bregman (2) for the first out of the bottom of the sixth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

81of232Houston Astros starting pitcher Justin Verlander (35) walks to the dugout at the end of the top of the fifth inning after allowing the Red Sox to take a 4-0 lead on a three-run home run by Boston Red Sox Rafael Devers (11) during Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

82of232Astros fans watch as Boston Red Sox Mookie Betts (50) catches a long fly ball from Houston Astros Alex Bregman (2) for the first out of the bottom of the sixth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

83of232Astros fans watch as Boston Red Sox Mookie Betts (50) catches a long fly ball from Houston Astros Alex Bregman (2) for the first out of the bottom of the sixth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

84of232Houston Astros Alex Bregman (2) throws out Boston Red Sox Andrew Benintendi (16) during the seventh inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

85of232Houston Astros relief pitcher Roberto Osuna (54) reacts at the end of the top of the fifth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

86of232Houston Astros Marwin Gonzalez (9) is welcomed home after hitting a solo home run during the seventh inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

87of232Houston Astros Marwin Gonzalez (9) is welcomed home after hitting a solo home run during the seventh inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

88of232Houston Astros Marwin Gonzalez (9) crosses home plate after hitting a home run during the seventh inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

89of232Houston Astros designated hitter Jose Altuve (27) reacts after striking out swinging during the sixth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

90of232Houston Astros designated hitter Jose Altuve (27) reacts after striking out swinging during the sixth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

91of232Houston Astros starting pitcher Justin Verlander (35) reacts at the end of the top of the fifth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

92of232Houston Astros Tony Kemp (18) fails to hold onto a double by Boston Red Sox Mitch Moreland (18) during the sixth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

93of232Houston Astros starting pitcher Justin Verlander (35) watches as a double by Boston Red Sox Mitch Moreland (18) flies into left field during the sixth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Michael Ciaglo/Staff photographer

94of232Boston Red Sox Rafael Devers (11) hits a three run home run off of Houston Astros starting pitcher Justin Verlander (35) to give the Red Sox a 4-0 lead during the sixth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Michael Ciaglo/Staff photographer

95of232The Boston Red Sox celebrate their 4-0 lead after a three-run home run by Boston Red Sox Rafael Devers (11) during the sixth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

96of232Boston Red Sox Mitch Moreland (18) hits a double off of Houston Astros starting pitcher Justin Verlander (35) during the sixth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Michael Ciaglo/Staff photographer

97of232Fans watch as Houston Astros Alex Bregman (2) catches a pop out from Boston Red Sox Andrew Benintendi (16) during the fifth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

98of232Houston Astros Tony Kemp (18) strikes out swinging during the fifth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

99of232Fans watch as Houston Astros Alex Bregman (2) catches a pop out from Boston Red Sox Andrew Benintendi (16) during the fifth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

100of232Houston Astros starting pitcher Justin Verlander (35) greets right fielder George Springer (4) at the dugout after Springer ended the top of the fifth inning by catching a line drive from Boston Red Sox Xander Bogaerts (2) during Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Michael Ciaglo/Staff photographer

101of232Boston Red Sox Rafael Devers (11) rounds third after hitting a three-run home run to give the Red Sox a 4-0 lead during the sixth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

102of232Fans watch as Houston Astros Alex Bregman (2) catches a pop out from Boston Red Sox Andrew Benintendi (16) during the fifth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Michael Ciaglo/Staff photographer

103of232Fans watch as Houston Astros Alex Bregman (2) catches a pop out from Boston Red Sox Andrew Benintendi (16) during the fifth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

104of232Houston Astros catcher Martin Maldonado (15) watches as Boston Red Sox Rafael Devers (11) crosses home plate after hitting a three-run home run during the sixth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

105of232Houston Astros starting pitcher Justin Verlander (35) pitches during the fifth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

106of232Houston Astros starting pitcher Justin Verlander (35) allows a home run by Boston Red Sox Rafael Devers (11) to give the Red Sox a 4-0 lead during the sixth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

107of232Houston Astros starting pitcher Justin Verlander (35) watches a home run hit by Boston Red Sox Rafael Devers (11) to give the Red Sox a 4-0 lead during the sixth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Michael Ciaglo/Staff photographer

108of232Houston Astros starting pitcher Justin Verlander (35) allows a home run by Boston Red Sox Rafael Devers (11) to give the Red Sox a 4-0 lead during the sixth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

109of232Boston Red Sox starting pitcher David Price (24) throws out Houston Astros Jake Marisnick (6) at first during the fifth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

110of232An Astros fan gives a thumbs down gesture to umpire Joe West during Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

111of232Houston Astros Tony Kemp (18) fails to hold onto a double by Boston Red Sox Mitch Moreland (18) during the sixth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

112of232Houston Astros starting pitcher Justin Verlander (35) watches a home run hit by Boston Red Sox Rafael Devers (11) to give the Red Sox a 4-0 lead during the sixth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Michael Ciaglo/Staff photographer

113of232Houston Astros catcher Martin Maldonado (15) flies out to center field during the fifth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

114of232Houston Astros starting pitcher Justin Verlander (35) watches a home run hit by Boston Red Sox Rafael Devers (11) to give the Red Sox a 4-0 lead during the sixth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Michael Ciaglo/Staff photographer

115of232Houston Astros pitchers Lance McCullers Jr. (43), Dallas Keuchel and Gerrit Cole walk towards the bullpen at the beginning of the fifth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

116of232Houston Astros Yuli Gurriel (10) hits a double off of Boston Red Sox starting pitcher David Price (24) during the fourth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Michael Ciaglo/Staff photographer

117of232Houston Astros Marwin Gonzalez (9) reacts after striking out swinging during the fourth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Michael Ciaglo/Staff photographer

118of232Houston Astros Marwin Gonzalez (9) reacts after striking out swinging during the fourth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

119of232Houston Astros pitchers Lance McCullers Jr. (43), Dallas Keuchel and Gerrit Cole walk towards the bullpen at the beginning of the fifth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

120of232Houston Astros Yuli Gurriel (10) hits a double off of Boston Red Sox starting pitcher David Price (24) during the fourth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

121of232Boston Red Sox starting pitcher David Price (24) walks back to the dugout after striking out Houston Astros Marwin Gonzalez (9) to end the fourth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

122of232Astros fans hold signs directed at umpire Joe West during Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

123of232Houston Astros Marwin Gonzalez (9) reacts after striking out swinging during the fourth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

124of232Houston Astros Marwin Gonzalez (9) reacts after striking out swinging during the fourth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

125of232Houston Astros Yuli Gurriel (10) hits a double off of Boston Red Sox starting pitcher David Price (24) during the fourth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Michael Ciaglo/Staff photographer

126of232Houston Astros starting pitcher Justin Verlander (35) strikes out Boston Red Sox Rafael Devers (11) during the fourth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

127of232Houston Astros starting pitcher Justin Verlander (35) strikes out Boston Red Sox Rafael Devers (11) during the fourth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

128of232Astros fans cheer for Houston Astros designated hitter Jose Altuve (27) during the fifth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

129of232Houston Astros Alex Bregman (2) reacts after striking out during the third inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

130of232Houston Astros Alex Bregman (2) reacts after striking out during the third inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

131of232Houston Astros starting pitcher Justin Verlander (35) walks back to the dugout at the end of the top of the third inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

132of232Houston Astros George Springer (4) grounds out during the third inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

133of232Houston Astros Alex Bregman (2) reacts after striking out during the third inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

134of232Houston Astros starting pitcher Justin Verlander (35) walks back to the dugout at the end of the top of the third inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

135of232Houston Astros designated hitter Jose Altuve (27) watches during the third inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

136of232Houston Astros Alex Bregman (2) reacts after striking out during the third inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

137of232Houston Astros starting pitcher Justin Verlander (35) walks back to the dugout at the end of the top of the third inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

138of232Houston Astros Yuli Gurriel (10) hits a double off of Boston Red Sox starting pitcher David Price (24) during the fourth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

139of232Houston Astros starting pitcher Justin Verlander (35) walks back to the dugout at the end of the top of the third inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

140of232Houston Astros Alex Bregman (2) throws out Boston Red Sox Ian Kinsler (5) at first to end the top of the third inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

141of232Houston Astros Yuli Gurriel (10) hits a double off of Boston Red Sox starting pitcher David Price (24) during the fourth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

142of232Houston Astros Yuli Gurriel (10) celebrates his double off of Boston Red Sox starting pitcher David Price (24) during the fourth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

143of232Boston Red Sox starting pitcher David Price (24) pitches to Houston Astros Yuli Gurriel (10) during the fourth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

144of232Houston Astros Carlos Correa (1) reacts after striking out during the fourth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

145of232Houston Astros Carlos Correa (1) hits a high foul during the fourth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

146of232Houston Astros Carlos Correa (1) reacts after striking out during the fourth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

147of232Houston Astros designated hitter Jose Altuve (27) reacts after striking out swinging during the fourth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

148of232Houston Astros designated hitter Jose Altuve (27) reacts after striking out swinging during the fourth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

149of232Houston Astros designated hitter Jose Altuve (27) reacts after striking out swinging during the fourth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

150of232Houston Astros designated hitter Jose Altuve (27) reacts after striking out swinging during the fourth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

151of232Astros fans hope for a home run during the second inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

152of232Houston Astros Yuli Gurriel (10) singles to center field during the second inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

153of232Boston Red Sox Ian Kinsler (5) reaches first on a throwing error by Houston Astros Alex Bregman (2) when Yuli Gurriel (10) failed to hold onto the tag during the second inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

154of232Houston Astros starting pitcher Justin Verlander (35) pitches during the second inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

155of232Boston Red Sox Ian Kinsler (5) reaches first on a throwing error by Houston Astros Alex Bregman (2) when Yuli Gurriel (10) failed to hold onto the tag during the second inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

156of232Houston Astros Tony Kemp (18) catches a fly out from Boston Red Sox Mitch Moreland (18) during the second inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

157of232Houston Astros Yuli Gurriel (10) jumps for a throw from Alex Bregman (2) to try and tag a charging Boston Red Sox Ian Kinsler (5) during the second inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston. Gurriel lost the ball during the subsequent tag. Bregman was awarded a throwing error.Photo: Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

158of232Houston Astros starting pitcher Justin Verlander (35) pitches during the second inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

159of232Former Houston Astro Nolan Ryan watches Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

160of232Houston Astros starting pitcher Justin Verlander (35) pitches during the first inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

161of232Houston Astros starting pitcher Justin Verlander (35) pitches during the first inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

162of232Houston Astros Yuli Gurriel (10) jumps for a throw from Alex Bregman (2) to try and tag a charging Boston Red Sox Ian Kinsler (5) during the second inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston. Gurriel lost the ball during the subsequent tag. Bregman was awarded a throwing error.Photo: Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

163of232Houston Astros starting pitcher Justin Verlander (35) pitches during the first inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

164of232Houston Astros starting pitcher Justin Verlander (35) pitches during the first inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

165of232Houston Astros starting pitcher Justin Verlander (35) pitches during the first inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

166of232Houston Astros starting pitcher Justin Verlander (35) pitches during the first inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

167of232Houston Astros starting pitcher Justin Verlander (35) pitches during the first inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

168of232Houston Astros Tony Kemp (18) gets out of the way of ball four during the ninth inning of Game 4 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

169of232Boston Red Sox starting pitcher David Price (24) pitches during the first inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

170of232Houston Astros Alex Bregman (2) watches as the Boston Red Sox players celebrate after Boston Red Sox J.D. Martinez (28) caught a Bregman line drive to end Game 4 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

171of232Boston Red Sox Ian Kinsler (5) grounds out as Houston Astros Yuli Gurriel (10) makes the play at first during the third inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

172of232Boston Red Sox J.D. Martinez (28) celebrates with Xander Bogaerts (2) after Martinez hit a solo home run to give the Red Sox a 1-0 during the third inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

173of232Houston Astros manager AJ Hinch (14) talks with catcher Martin Maldonado (15) during the second inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

174of232Boston Red Sox starting pitcher David Price (24) pitches during the second inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

175of232Houston Astros Alex Bregman (2) fields a ground out from Boston Red Sox Ian Kinsler (5) during the third inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

176of232Houston Astros Marwin Gonzalez (9) can't reach a single hit by Boston Red Sox Mitch Moreland (18) during the third inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

177of232Houston Astros George Springer (4) reacts after being struck out by Boston Red Sox starting pitcher David Price (24) during the first inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Michael Ciaglo/Staff photographer

178of232Houston Astros George Springer (4) and Jake Marisnick (6) smile in the outfield after Springer caught a fly ball to get Boston Red Sox Andrew Benintendi (16) out during the first inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Michael Ciaglo/Staff photographer

179of232Houston Astros starting pitcher Justin Verlander (35) warms up in the outfield before Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Michael Ciaglo/Staff photographer

180of232Houston Astros starting pitcher Justin Verlander (35) pitches to Boston Red Sox Mookie Betts (50) at the beginning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Michael Ciaglo/Staff photographer

181of232Astros fans watch as Houston Astros starting pitcher Justin Verlander (35) warms up before Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Michael Ciaglo/Staff photographer

182of232Astros fans watch as Houston Astros starting pitcher Justin Verlander (35) warms up before Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Michael Ciaglo/Staff photographer

183of232Houston Astros starting pitcher Justin Verlander (35) warms up in the outfield before Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Michael Ciaglo/Staff photographer

184of232Former Houston Astro Jeff Kent throws out the first pitch before Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Michael Ciaglo/Staff photographer

185of232Houston Astros Alex Bregman (2) commits a throwing error to allow Boston Red Sox Ian Kinsler (5) to reach first during the second inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Michael Ciaglo/Staff photographer

186of232Houston Astros starting pitcher Justin Verlander (35) reacts after walking Boston Red Sox Jackie Bradley Jr. (19) during the second inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Michael Ciaglo/Staff photographer

187of232Houston Astros starting pitcher Justin Verlander (35) surrenders a home run to Boston Red Sox J.D. Martinez (28) during the third inning to give the Red Sox a 1-0 lead in Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Michael Ciaglo/Staff photographer

188of232Houston Astros designated hitter Jose Altuve (27) hits a single to center field during the first inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Michael Ciaglo/Staff photographer

189of232Houston Astros Yuli Gurriel (10) singles to center field during the second inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Michael Ciaglo/Staff photographer

190of232Houston Astros starting pitcher Justin Verlander (35) reacts after striking out Boston Red Sox Mookie Betts (50) with the bases loaded to end the top of the second inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

191of232Houston Astros Marwin Gonzalez (9) flies out to right field during the second inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

192of232Houston Astros Marwin Gonzalez (9) walks back to the dugout after flying out to right field during the second inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

193of232Houston Astros Marwin Gonzalez (9) flies out to right field during the second inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

194of232Houston Astros starting pitcher Justin Verlander (35) reacts after walking Boston Red Sox Jackie Bradley Jr. (19) during the second inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

195of232Houston Astros Yuli Gurriel (10) singles to center field during the second inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

196of232Houston Astros starting pitcher Justin Verlander (35) reacts after walking Boston Red Sox Jackie Bradley Jr. (19) during the second inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

197of232Houston Astros Yuli Gurriel (10) singles to center field during the second inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

198of232Houston Astros starting pitcher Justin Verlander (35) reacts after walking Boston Red Sox Jackie Bradley Jr. (19) during the second inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

199of232Houston Astros starting pitcher Justin Verlander (35) reacts after striking out Boston Red Sox Mookie Betts (50) with the bases loaded to end the top of the second inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

200of232Houston Astros Tony Kemp (18) catches a line out from Boston Red Sox Rafael Devers (11) during the second inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

201of232Houston Astros Tony Kemp (18) catches a line out from Boston Red Sox Rafael Devers (11) during the second inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

202of232Houston Astros Carlos Correa (1) strikes out during the first inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

203of232Houston Astros starting pitcher Justin Verlander (35) of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

204of232Houston Astros Alex Bregman (2) commits a throwing error to allow Boston Red Sox Ian Kinsler (5) to reach first during the second inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

205of232Houston Astros Alex Bregman (2) warms up before the second inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

206of232Houston Astros designated hitter Jose Altuve (27) hits a single to center field during the first inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

207of232Houston Astros Carlos Correa (1) walks back onto the field after striking out and leaving a runner stranded to end the first inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

208of232Houston Astros George Springer (4) reacts after being struck out by Boston Red Sox starting pitcher David Price (24) during the first inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

209of232Houston Astros George Springer (4) hits his knees in the middle of his at bat during the first inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

210of232Houston Astros designated hitter Jose Altuve (27) hits a single to center field during the first inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

211of232Houston Astros Alex Bregman (2) flies out during the first inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

212of232Houston Astros George Springer (4) strikes out on a pitch by Boston Red Sox starting pitcher David Price (24) during the first inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

213of232Boston Red Sox starting pitcher David Price (24) pitches during the first inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

214of232Astros fans cheer for Houston Astros Alex Bregman (2) during the first inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

215of232Houston Astros starting pitcher Justin Verlander (35) checks the runner at first during the first inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

216of232Houston Astros starting pitcher Justin Verlander (35) pitches during the first inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

217of232Umpire Joe West (center) is met with boos while entering the field before Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

218of232Houston Astros starting pitcher Justin Verlander (35) checks the runner at first during the first inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

219of232Houston Astros Alex Bregman (2) prepares to enter the field for Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

220of232Houston Astros starting pitcher Justin Verlander (35) pitches during the first inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

221of232Houston Astros Tony Kemp (18) listens to the National Anthem before Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

222of232Boston Red Sox Mookie Betts (50) talks with Houston Astros George Springer (4) before Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

223of232Boston Red Sox J.D. Martinez (28) hits a solo home run to give the Red Sox a 1-0 during the third inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

224of232Houston Astros starting pitcher Justin Verlander (35) reacts after surrendering a home run to Boston Red Sox J.D. Martinez (28) to give the Red Sox a 1-0 lead during the third inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

225of232Houston Astros starting pitcher Justin Verlander (35) reacts after thinking he had struck out Boston Red Sox J.D. Martinez (28) during the third inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston. Martinez hit a home run on the next pitch.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

226of232Boston Red Sox J.D. Martinez (28) hits a solo home run to give the Red Sox a 1-0 during the third inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

227of232A fan holds up a sign directed at umpire Joe West referencing the MLB rule that says "no interference will be allowed when an outfielder reaches over a fence" during the second inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

228of232Boston Red Sox manager Alex Cora laughs as people sing "Happy Birthday" to him before Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

229of232Former Houston Astro Jeff Kent throws out the first pitch before Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

230of232Former Astro Craig Biggio and Boston Red Sox manager Alex Cora talk before Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

231of232Houston Astros pitcher Dallas Keuchel (60) signs autographs before Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

232of232Former Houston Astro Jeff Kent throws out the first pitch before Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, in Houston.Photo: Karen Warren/Staff photographer

A.J. Hinch addressed a near-empty room.

Justin Verlander, backed up against a huge Astros "H" inside a quiet clubhouse, answered question after question until the final reporter walked away.

Dallas Keuchel remembered the pain when it all suddenly ended for the first time in 2015, then acknowledged he doesn't know which Major League Baseball team he'll play for in 2019.

The best Astros team in regular-season history dropped three consecutive games at Minute Maid Park in the American League Championship Series.

It was 4-1 Boston in Game 5 on Thursday night. The score matched and captured the series in the Astros' final game of 2018.

"It sucks. This is a press conference you never really prepare for," said Hinch, after David Price outpitched Verlander and the Astros fell to a better, stronger team. "I don't know the right words, the right tone, the right content. I mean, it's an extremely disappointed clubhouse because we want to keep playing."

When it was over, the Astros hugged each other, quietly gathered in small groups and offered the final words in a private conversation that started the moment the franchise won its first world title in the glowing Los Angeles night.

"Thank you, Marwin, for everything," was whispered, as Gonzalez received an embrace in the middle of the clubhouse.

But it all ended with a letdown in 2018.

Dropping three ALCS games at home after taking a 1-0 series lead at Fenway Park?

There wasn't a soul in the world who predicted that.

"It was a quick death, man," Gerrit Cole said. "It was a quick death. We were close in that Fenway game. And then they just had some explosive innings we just weren't able to control, and from the offensive side we just weren't able to answer."

Hinch's club – sloppy, off rhythm, energy-less -- fell face-first after the pure confidence of Game 1 in Boston, which had followed a clean sweep of Cleveland in the AL Division Series.

There was controversy in this ALCS.

Hinch's team was beat up.

But the Astros simply lost, finishing seven playoff wins away from becoming MLB's first repeat champs since the 1998-2000 New York Yankees.

"They beat us. We ran out of wins," Hinch said. "We had a tough-fought series. You can break down the series however you want, whether it's their two-out hitting or ... they took it to us. And they won games. ... They did a really good job of having an excellent game plan and going and executing it, and they were extremely tough."

The Astros talked and talked, printing up cool T-shirts and acting like they ran the league.

The Red Sox just won.

"It's either you're standing on top or you're down below," said Keuchel, who's set to become a free agent. "It's never easy in these situations, especially with a talented group like we had. ... In this case, they just outplayed the crap out of us."

Jeff Luhnow's remade bullpen fell apart. The Astros' starting arms, a season-long strength, were outpowered by Boston's once-shaky rotation. Alex Bregman was a fiery showman and Instagram star, but hit just .133 (2-for-15) in the ALCS and only two Astros batted above .300 during the series.

Minute Maid lost its Game 4 roar. Ex-Astro J.D. Martinez scorched a home run to deep left field. Price (nine strikeouts, three hits, no runs in six smooth innings) rewrote his Boston and playoff history on the same night, outdueling the Astros' October ace.

"It's one of the most special days I've ever had on the baseball field," Price said.

The Astros' sharpest early crack in Game 5 was delivered by injured Jose Altuve, who entered an elimination game playing on "one leg" and was forced to remain as the Astros' designated hitter.

"Tremendous heart. It's all about heart with him," Hinch said. "He is such a great example of what's right. And I've said that over and over again. But he -- I wish you guys knew what he had to go through to play every day and get himself prepared and then contribute and do well."

Game 4 came down to inches and will always be remembered for the home run that wasn't.

But the series was defined by the Astros just being beat. It never felt like Hinch's team fully believed in itself in Game 5 and MLB's reigning champs lost their way in this ALCS.

While Price kept aiming true, Verlander was shelled in a game-changing sixth. A leadoff double by Mitch Moreland – bouncing off the left-field wall, just out of Tony Kemp's leaping grasp – turned into a three-run inning when No. 7 hitter Rafael Devers lifted a first-pitch, 98-mph fastball into the left center-field stands.

It was suddenly 4-0 Boston and the Astros' 103-win season was down to 12 outs.

Nine.

Seven.

Gonzalez finally gave the Astros life, hammering a solo shot to left field.

Brian T. Smith is a sports columnist for the Houston Chronicle. He has won multiple Associated Press Sports Editors awards and been honored by numerous journalism organizations. Smith was a Houston Texans beat writer for the Chronicle from 2013-15 and an Astros beat writer from 2012-13. The New Orleans-area native previously covered the NBA's Utah Jazz (The Salt Lake Tribune) and Portland Trail Blazers (The Columbian), among other beats. He is the author of the book Liftoff, which documented the Astros' rebuild and 2017 World Series championship.